1963 Avanti Still Turning Heads 50 Years Later

[rgallatin]

SF Gate article about Studebaker Automotive shutting down 50 years ago this month. "People that aren't even interested in cars turn their heads to look at it."


1963 Avanti still turning heads 50 years later.

www.theavanti.net

[Chris Pile]

I remember the first one I saw as a kid. I was smitten. Still am.

[JBOYLE]

I remember the first one I saw as a kid. I was smitten. Still am.

Well said..my story exactly. Which is why I have one.

[AnAvanti4Bob]

I remember them new in 1963 and the memory stuck which is why I had to have one - they are even better in person!

[rgallatin]

I remember them new in 1963 and the memory stuck which is why I had to have one - they are even better in person!

The Avanti has to be seen in person to experience the full effect of its "coke bottle" contours. I have yet to see any photographs that completely capture its appeal.

[SN-60]

The first one I saw was a gold R2 four speed....and the Studebaker dealer who had the car was not afraid to put on a show with it any time he could.....Great memories!!

[63t-cab]

Richard,I have too agree with You on this - though I've seen a few pics that show the curves very nicely,and Your shot hits the mark

The Avanti has to be seen in person to experience the full effect of its "coke bottle" contours. I have yet to see any photographs that completely capture its appeal.

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[Xcalibur]

For many years I drove a custom '82 (most obvious mod being color-matched 'glass '84-85 bumpers). Because it was my daily driver I'd sometimes forget how unique it really was (I always had at least one or two '63s in the garage, as well). BUT, every now and then someone would remind me... while stopped for gas, in the grocery store parking lot, at work. Indeed, driving an Avanti, especially on a regular basis, is an interesting experience... certainly!

[EssexExport]

I'd like to get a ride in one one of these days.

[SN-60]

For many years I drove a custom '82 (most obvious mod being color-matched 'glass '84-85 bumpers). Because it was my daily driver I'd sometimes forget how unique it really was (I always had at least one or two '63s in the garage, as well). BUT, every now and then someone would remind me... while stopped for gas, in the grocery store parking lot, at work. Indeed, driving an Avanti, especially on a regular basis, is an interesting experience... certainly!

I live that every day......Yes, VERY interesting experiences......If You like to chat with people, drive an AVANTI!!!

[Lou Van Anne]

Hey!...that's my story!

I remember the first one I saw as a kid. I was smitten. Still am.

[Warren Webb]

Twice smitten here. My first introduction was a picture shown to me by a classmate, Brian Kovac, whose dad owned the Studebaker dealership in town. I spoke with Brian 3 days ago & we reminisced of those Studebaker days, the days his dad worked after Kaiser had called it quits. Not relating to the subject but Brian's mom passed away last week, 5 days after she turned 98. Our condolences go out to Brian & his sister for their loss.

[spokejr]

I'd like to get a ride in one one of these days.

I recommend the driver's seat over shotgun, definintely!

[JLB]

SF Gate article about Studebaker Automotive shutting down 50 years ago this month. "People that aren't even interested in cars turn their heads to look at it."


1963 Avanti still turning heads 50 years later.

www.theavanti.net

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The exact same article ran yesterday in "The Courier-Journal", in Louisville Kentucky.

[gs-xnr]

Ditto for me also. I was 15 when I first saw pictures and was also smitten. I owned and restored many cars over the years but never an Avanti. Finally all the stars lined up last year and I bought mine. I don't usually keep my projects once they are finished because I find restoring them is my passion. But the Avanti is different. I've had 2 offers to purchase it but I just can't sell this car. I've waited 50 years for one and the "lust" is still there. Merry Christmas everyone. I might have to take her out for a drive to celebrate. Harvey